Environment

EPTA members take their responsibility to environmental issues seriously. They recognise that the need to protect and sustain the environment is an integral component of good business practice. As part of understanding the industry's environmental impacts, EPTA has undertaken a life cycle analysis on a corded and a cordless drill, the most commonly sold product among power tools. It also initiated a project on measuring the environmental footprint of its products. EPTA cooperated with the International Association for Advanced Rechargeable Batteries in making a socio-economic and environmental impact analysis of the use of batteries in cordless power tools.


Cleaning of an ICE train with a Kärcher vacuum cleaner.

As manufacturers, EPTA members recognise that some components of power tools, particularly batteries in cordless power tools, contain hazardous materials. EPTA members are working hard to ensure that power tools are either reused or recycled at end of life. Several EPTA members have well established refurbishment facilities. However, EPTA members are still dependent on national, regional and local authorities ensuring that the necessary collection facilities are in place and creating public awareness of the importance of returning waste electrical and electronic equipment at the end of its life.